There is a common Yiddish phrase used to describe an arbitrary reasoning that is not based on the sources: "Boich sevarah" -- literally, "stomach reasoning." What is the exact meaning of this phrase, and for how long has it been used? [This question was inspired by two pieces in Teshuvos Chasam Sofer (YD 129 and 353) that reject someone's "סברת הכרס".]

still the same meaning. Some people like gut feelings, some people don't. Boich sevaros might often be correct as well, they just aren't appreciated in halachic literature. Similarly, 'gut feelings' would be laughed at in an scientific journal.
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aviAug 3 '11 at 8:05